Nickie_ria

> Nelly thought she was being rescued when she was sent to live with the Benson family. But what waited for her was cruelty, silence, and pain. Bullied by her new siblings, ignored by her guardians, and betrayed by her own parents for money, Nelly learns to survive in a house built on lies.

But when a small girl named Joy shows her unexpected kindness, Nelly finds a spark of hope. Now, she must choose — stay broken or rise and fight.

In a world that wants to silence her, can Nelly find her voice before it's too late?

A story of pain, betrayal, strength… and one girl’s fight to be heard.

A TALE OF NELLY

The early morning sun poured through the windows as the car rolled smoothly toward the school gate. The driver hummed softly while Jimmy sat beside Nelly, both quiet, nerves buzzing underneath the calm.

They stepped out together, the familiar routine settling like armor against the chaos waiting inside.

At break time, the school courtyard was alive with chatter and laughter, but Nelly and Jimmy found a quiet spot beneath the wide shade of an old tree, away from the noisy crowd.

Jimmy shifted, glancing at Nelly. His voice was low, careful.

> "Nelly… I've been wanting to say this for a while."

He swallowed. "I like you. More than just… friends. I do."

For a long moment, the air thickened with possibility.

Nelly smiled softly, but instead of answering, she pointed toward the school gate.

> "After school, can you come with me to Mrs. Grace's place? There's something I need to do.

Jimmy nodded, a small grin breaking through.

The walk from school to Mrs. Grace's house was quiet but comfortable. The sun was warm, and the soft rustling of leaves above their heads filled the silence.

Jimmy kept stealing glances at Nelly, but she stayed focused ahead, determined.

When they reached the small, humble house, Mrs. Grace was already waiting on the porch. Her tired eyes lit up when she saw Nelly.

> "Thank God you came," Mrs. Grace said warmly, pulling her into a brief hug.

Jimmy stepped forward and reached into his bag. Pulling out a check, he handed it to Mrs. Grace.

> "This is for you. Five hundred thousand. To help with upkeep and whatever else you need."

Mrs. Grace's eyes widened with surprise and gratitude.

> "No. It's not enough, but it's what I can do. My dad's with his daughter now, and it's making things harder for you. You deserve better."

> "Thank you, Jimmy. For everything."

After some brief chat, Jimmy called his driver to take them home.

Jimmy gave Mrs. Grace a final nod before following Nelly outside.

The black car rolled up smoothly. They climbed in, and as the car pulled away, Nelly stared out the window, thoughts heavy but spirit steady.

CHAPTER 14